Broncos find success at Stanislaus Twilight

By Gabe Taylor

For senior Chris Mosier, a first place finish marked the end of his collegiate career.

"It was a bittersweet way to end my running career at the Division I level," wrote Mosier in email, reflecting on his victory in the 1500-meter at the Cal State Stanislaus Twilight meet last Friday in Turlock, California.  

With strong winds present, Mosier's time of 4:07:00 fell short of his personal record.   

Earlier in the season, Mosier suffered a hamstring injury that kept him away from the track for months.

"It was a very tedious and frustrating process, but I remained positive that I would return for the track season," said Mosier.  

Elliptical workouts in the Pat Malley Fitness and Recreation Center assisted Mosier in his return. By the beginning of the track season, Mosier was cleared to lace up.   

"It is hard to quantify what Chris has brought to the team," wrote head coach Felipe Montoro in an email. "He has been a real leader on the team and been a major player in our recent improvements."

Santa Clara avoided losing both Mosier and senior Robbie Reid, the school record-holder in the 1500-meter, when Reid announced his eligibility for a fifth year. Reid, who was recognized for his accomplishments, radiates what it means to be a competitor.  

"His focus and work ethic are the epitome of what it means to be a Division 1 Cross Country and Track runner," wrote Mosier of his teammate. "He is an inspiration for each of us on the team."

Fellow senior Kazimir "Amanda" Brown added a spark on the women's side in the 100-meter, racing away from the competition to finish with a first place victory. Her time of 12.31 seconds proved to be a seasonal best.  

Brown's success continued as she grabbed a second place finish in the 200-meter with a time of 25.81 seconds.

A freshman record marked just the beginning of Allie Sibole's voyage through the Santa Clara track program.  

The following day, Sibole picked up where her teammates left off.

Recording a time of 4:38.95 in the 1500-meter, Sibole began to write her name into Santa Clara history.  

"I came in prepared to drift off the main pack, and although I took a gamble starting off a 1500 that fast, it definitely paid off," wrote Sibole.

Sibole's personal best was also the best time ever for a Santa Clara freshman, and just shy of the university's all-time record.  

"(Setting the school record) shouldn't be too difficult; I know I can go out fast, so next year I'll try to build up closing speed so I can finish the race off strong."  

Although Sibole has set objectives, Montoro believes the possibilities are endless for the talented runner.

"Allie doesn't know how good she can be," wrote Montoro. "She has so much room for growth in her training, that I think the ceiling for her is very high. It is always exciting when young athletes perform well, but it is important to stay patient and not get ahead of ourselves in terms of volume and intensity in training."

Sibole credits much of her achievements to those who surround her on the team.  

"We've got girls who lead on our workouts, girls who lead in races, and girls who lead by encouraging everyone on the team," wrote Sibole.  

Whether it is Mosier making his way out of the door, or Sibole stepping past the welcome mat, Santa Clara is in the midst of success.

Contact Gabe Taylor at gtaylor@scu.edu or (408) 551-1918.